Religion and belief in Britain: the Commission on Religion and Belief in British Public Life
Religion and belief are driving forces in society today. Although there is some divergence of opinion over the extent, there is unanimity that the UK is becoming less Christian, less religious and more diverse. Dr Ed Kessler, Vice Chairman of the Commission on Religion and Belief in British Public Life, will discuss the implications of the dramatic changes in the religious landscape in less than two generations.

The Commission’s report, ‘Living with Difference’, was published in December 2016 and generated a fierce debate about UK public policy related to religion and belief. Dr Kessler will reflect on the reaction to the report as well as its impact in the areas of education, the media, law, dialogue and social action.

Understanding religion and belief is not an option but a necessity that the Government needs to factor into their approaches. The pattern of religious affiliation has changed and continues to change. Policymakers and politicians need to catch up with events, to enhance their capacity to read a most potent sign of our times – religion and belief.
Date: 7 November 2016, 17:00 (Monday, 5th week, Michaelmas 2016)
Venue: 15 Norham Gardens, 15 Norham Gardens OX2 6PY
Venue Details: Seminar Room A (via Reception)
Speaker: Dr Edward Kessler (University of Cambridge)
Organising department: Department of Education
Organiser: Mr Phil Richards (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: philip.richards@education.ox.ac.uk
Host: Dr Liam Gearon (University of Oxford)
Part of: Department of Education Public Seminars
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Public
Editor: Philip Richards